LOGIC CLASSES MIGHT HELP

Shooting The Messenger

We have received numerous calls, visits and e-mails regarding a story that
appeared November 26 on the easy accessibility of cocaine at the local high
school. There have been indications that the coverage even received
attention in class.

Predictably, we have been criticized for running the story. It is the usual
"shoot the messenger" syndrome. If you don't like the news, just blame the
newspaper. Unfortunately, this line of thinking is not conducive to
awareness.

The high school would be well advised to establish a class in logic and
modes of reasoning. In this way the teachers and students might be able to
grasp the fact that just because cocaine is readily available to high school
students, doesn't mean that everybody at BMLSS, or GHS, is on drugs.

To be offended, disgusted and of the opinion that the newspaper should not
dare to run such stories, because the majority of students don't use drugs,
is simply illogical. A serious drug problem exists in Bracebridge and
Gravenhurst. It affects many high school students and the public should be
aware of this fact.

For those who want to play ostrich and stick their heads in the sand, all we
can say is that such attitudes are irresponsible. It is far more responsible
to be aware of the problem and urge school administrators to introduce
programmes and presentations to warn students of the real dangers inherent
in using drugs like cocaine.

It is also something parents should keep in mind when dealing with their
"children".